HIV, which stands for human immunodeficiency virus, is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (also known as T helper cells). CD4 cells are responsible for coordinating the body’s immune response to infections and diseases. When HIV infects a person, it replicates inside CD4 cells, gradually destroying them in the process. As the immune system weakens, the person becomes more vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain types of cancers.

AIDS, which stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is the advanced stage of HIV infection. It is diagnosed when the CD4 cell count drops below a certain threshold or when specific AIDS-defining illnesses occur. AIDS is characterized by a severely compromised immune system, making the person susceptible to a wide range of infections and diseases that would not usually cause harm in a healthy individual.

HIV is primarily transmitted through certain body fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. Unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or other drug injection equipment, mother-to-child transmission during childbirth or breastfeeding, and rare cases of blood transfusions with contaminated blood can all lead to HIV transmission.

Preventing HIV infection involves various strategies, such as practicing safe sex by using condoms, getting tested regularly for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, and using clean needles or needle exchange programs for drug use. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for HIV, which helps suppress the virus, allows the immune system to rebuild, and prevents HIV from progressing to AIDS. ART also reduces the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

It’s important to note that there is no cure for HIV/AIDS currently, but with early diagnosis and proper medical care, people living with HIV can lead long and fulfilling lives. Ongoing research and efforts in education, prevention, and treatment continue to improve our understanding of HIV/AIDS and contribute to reducing the number of new infections globally.